YAMHILL COUNTY, OR — Two people and their dog died last Thursday, September 15, after a multi-vehicle wreck on Oregon State Highway 18 near McMinnville, reports Oregon Today.
The fatal accident near milepost 42, south of Southwest Masonville Road, in an area southwest of the city. Oregon State Police Troopers and first responders were called to the scene at about 3:03 p.m.
According to investigators, a 62-year-old Dayton man was driving a silver Hyundai Santa Fe eastbound when he tried to pass a gray Acura MDX driven by a 68-year-old Happy Valley resident. Officials said the Hyundai rear-ended the Acura as it passed and then traveled back into the westbound lane. Moments later, the Hyundai collided head-on with an oncoming Peterbilt dump truck driven by a 68-year-old Sheridan resident.
The driver of the Hyundai and his passenger, a 77-year-old Dayton woman, were pronounced deceased at the scene. Authorities said their dog, who was in the vehicle at the time, also died.
Neither of the other drivers were reported injured.
Officials were active on the scene for about five hours following the crash, impacting traffic in the area.
Multiple other agencies, including the Yamhill County Sheriff’s office, the McMinnville Police Department, the McMinnville Fire Department, and the Oregon Department of Transportation, assisted at the scene.
An investigation remains underway, but alcohol and speed are suspected factors in the crash.
Have you lost a loved one in a car crash due to the negligence of another driver in the Portland area? Under Oregon law, your family has a right to seek compensation. A compassionate Portland wrongful death lawyer at Herron Law is here to provide support in a difficult time. Contact us by phone at 503-367-0829 or by completing our online contact form.
